You are here:
Collection of Samples from Porous Surfaces Using Microvacuum Techniques for the Detection of Microbiological Agents - Revision 1.0
Citation:
Chandler, J., Y. Chambers-Velarde, J. Cuddeback, E. King, E. Silvestri-Niemer, J. Archer, W. Calfee, AND M. Pirhalla. Collection of Samples from Porous Surfaces Using Microvacuum Techniques for the Detection of Microbiological Agents - Revision 1.0. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, 2025.
Impact/Purpose:
When an environmental catastrophe resulting in contamination occurs, whether from intentional incident such as a terrorist attack or an unintentional incident such as an industrial spill, emergency responders and decision-makers need timely and accurate data. This need for data can require the collection and analysis of numerous samples to determine the extent of contamination and to make informed decisions regarding remediation. Sample collection procedures are used during site characterization, remediation and release in support of EPA’s post-incident responsibilities. The procedures provide instructions regarding the collection of samples from indoor/outdoor environmental, building, and infrastructure materials that will be analyzed for contaminants using the methods provided in the Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM). This document provides step-by-step instructions for the use of 37-mm vacuum filter cassettes, to be used in conjunction with a microvacuum, to collect samples from surfaces potentially contaminated with select pathogens. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the analytical methods listed in SAM, as well as the corresponding SCID for pathogens. This document provides information on the materials and equipment needed for sample collection and the assembly of sampling kits; step-by-step instructions for taking field and quality control (QC) samples; and information on sample packaging, storage, and transport. Use of the procedure by EPA, or EPA contracted sample collectors, will ensure that quality samples are collected to support laboratory analysis.
Description:
This document provides step-by-step instructions for the use of a 37-mm filter cassette (mixed cellulose ester [MCE] or a polytetrafluoroethylene [PTFE] filter), air sampling pump, and microvacuuming techniques to collect samples from porous surfaces potentially contaminated with Bacillus anthracis spores. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the analytical methods listed for microbiological agents in the latest version of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) document and associated online query tools for SAM hosted on the Environmental Sampling and Analysis Method Program web pages. Although recovery efficiency and performance are not known for its use with the other microbiological agents listed in SAM, it could potentially be applied for use with those agents. The instructions are applicable to collection of microbiological agents during site remediation and recovery following an intentional or accidental homeland security related contamination incident. Information is provided on the materials and equipment needed for sample collection; the assembly of sampling kits; step-by-step instructions for collecting field and quality control samples; and sample packaging, storage, and transport. Information on materials, sampling kit assembly, and sample collection is provided for filter cassettes with and without manufacturer-attached nozzles.